Packing list

Packing for an Alaska trip depends entirely on the activities you’ve got planned but the common theme is to hope for the best, plan for the worst.

If you’re planning on skiing, paddling or technical climbing you’ll need specialized equipment: consult your operator.

Some essential equipment (especially safety gear) will be provided by your operator--it’s essential that you check before you head into the bush.

General backpacking list

• Backpack: Minimum 70L for men, 60L for women. Bear in mind that backpacking gear (bear barrel, food, tent, etc) will full a good 20L of your pack. If in doubt err on the side of caution and go for a bigger pack.

• Waterproof cover: Check that it will fit your pack (when full!)

• Daypack: For carrying food and essentials while on hikes.

• Water bottle: At least 1L. Bladders are good for hands-free sips but also bring a hard-sided bottle such as a Nalgene.

• Hiking boots: Quality medium/heavy-duty hiking boots broken in before you arrive.

• Hiking socks: Four pairs of synthetic or wool mid-weight hiking socks.

• Waterproof/breathable rain jacket and rain pants: Gore-Tex or similar quality breathable waterproofs are essential.

• Lightweight windshirt.

• Synthetic or wool (no cotton), long-sleeve top and bottoms.

• Synthetic hiking pants.

• Warm beanie hat.

• Mosquito head net.

• Fleece or wool gloves.

Around camp

• Sleeping Bag: Synthetic or down sleeping bag rated to a minimum of 30 degrees F.

• Stuff-sacks: Two waterproof compression sacks, one to fit your sleeping bag, the other to fit your extra layers.

• Sleeping pad: Closed-cell foam pad or inflatable air mattress.

• Headlamp: Especially for trips departing after August 1.

• Heavyweight synthetic top: For staying warm around camp.

• Thick fleece or wool gloves: Keep dry and only use them around camp.

• Lightweight Crocs or sport sandals: For around camp and crossing streams and rivers.

• Sacred socks: Heavy, warm pair of socks to put on at night. Keep dry at all costs!

Personal items

• Sunglasses with case

• Toiletries

• Personal medications

• Sun screen/lip protection

• Pack towel

• Book/Kindle

• Camera

• Binoculars

• Insect repellent

Optional / recommended gear

• Lightweight synthetic glove liners

• Bandana

• Accessory carabiners

• Synthetic liner socks

• Gore-Tex or Lightweight Neoprene Socks

• Waterproof gaiters